High Winds, Snow, and Threat of Wildfires Bearing Down on the Rockies to the Northeast

A late-season Alberta clipper storm is going to roar down from the Rockies and into the northeastern U.S. during the back half of the week. The fast-moving storm will bring along high winds and areas of snow. Read on for the details of this weather maker.

Clipper Storm to Whip Up Winds, Raising Wildfire Danger

Winter is saying "not so fast," as a clipper storm races down from Canada on the heels of a springlike stretch of severe weather. The clipper storm will spread snow throughout the northern edge of the country as it tracks to the east. The strong winds associated with the storm will also raise the threat of wildfires in the Plains.

The arrival of the clipper event may come as a shock to the millions of residents of the central and eastern U.S. who have been enjoying record-challenging warmth in recent days. Temperatures are set to take a dramatic tumble as the cold front and clipper make their move to the east.

The clipper will zoom eastward on Thursday and Friday, riding along a boundary that is separating the cool air in the northern U.S. and the frigid temperatures circulating in Canada. Powerful winds will fire up along with the storm, potentially bringing down trees and power lines. Forecasters are also warning residents to be alert about the chance of flying debris. This is a good time to secure outdoor furniture, grills, and trash cans so that they do not become projectiles.